Episode 42: Selective Separations: What Membrane Science Can Teach Chromatographers

In this episode of Concentrating on Chromatography, host David Oliva sits down with Dr. Steven Weinman, Associate Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of Alabama, to explore how membrane science and chromatography intersect in modern separation challenges.Steven shares his journey from chemical engineering student to membrane researcher, and explains how membranes are used not only for water purification, but also for sample preparation, pre-treatment, and concentration in analytical workflows. The conversation dives deep into PFAS removal, nanofiltration vs. reverse osmosis, and how chromatography and mass spectrometry are essential for validating membrane performance.Key topics discussed include:* How membranes function as separation and concentration tools* Nanofiltration vs. reverse osmosis for salts and PFAS* The role of chromatography (LC-MS, GC-MS, ion chromatography) in verifying contaminant removal* Challenges in scaling academic separation technologies to industry* Sustainability in membrane manufacturing and PFAS-related regulations* Training students to balance fundamental science with real-world applicationsWhether you work in environmental analysis, chromatography, mass spectrometry, water quality, or separation science, this episode provides valuable insight into how different separation technologies complement each other—and where the field is heading next.🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on chromatography, sample preparation, and analytical science.